New infection variants from the STOP/Djvu Ransomware Family have been a constant in the malware world, and the gang strikes again with VVWQ Ransomware. Like other associated malicious code strains, this ransomware locks files and then demands a ransom fee to restore file access.
Ransomware can be distributed via software bundles, so if you tend to download freeware or pirated apps distributed via torrent or software crack sites, you may end up installing threats like VVWQ Ransomware.
VVWQ Ransomware locks most of the popular file types, including photos, music, documents, and videos. During the file encryption process, VVWQ Ransomware adds the .VVWQ extension to affected files and leaves a ransom note on the user’s desktop and in every folder that contains encrypted files.
Unfortunately, an online decryption tool that can unlock encrypted files is not currently available. The only reliable way to recover infected files is to restore them from a backup. Victims can also attempt to use alternative data recovery options, but there is no guarantee that alternative data recovery tools will be able to unlock all the encrypted files.
Once downloaded and installed, VVWQ Ransomware employs the AES encryption algorithm to lock up target files. It then demands a ransom in exchange for the decryption key. The decryption key costs $980, but the ransomware’s operators will offer a 50% discount, and only charge $490, if the victim contacts them within the first 72 hours after infection.
The hackers can be contacted at support@bestyourmail.ch and supportsys@airmail.cc. We discourage establishing contact with the hackers however, as there is no guarantee that they will provide decryption tools after payment or even communicate with you.
How Do I Deal with the VVWQ Ransomware Infection?
To protect yourself from VVWQ Ransomware, you should invest in a reputable malware remediation tool to regularly scan for elements associated with this troublesome ransomware infection. Additionally, you should also back up your files on an external hard drive or cloud storage.
